Intro
Do you ever feel like your church needs to utilize social media in a better way? Or, maybe you simply want to know how to use social media to expand your reach and share the gospel with more people.
If so, you’re in the right place.
Because the reality is, social media is a powerful ministry tool. The words, images, and videos you share on social media travel faster and farther than any other method of communication.
Social media has the potential to help you reach your community in a new way.
So, let’s dive into 3 shifts to use social media for ministry. Each of these shifts will help you use social media to enhance communication, grow engagement, and build deep roots.
Shift 1: Expanding Your Reach
Do you want to expand your reach beyond your church's physical location?
Then, start utilizing social media to reach more people. Start by consistently posting on social media to reach people who are curious about your church. You can post videos from staff members, host a live Q&A, and share about exciting church events. Every post has the potential to bring hope to hundreds or thousands of people.
Another helpful way to expand your reach is by repurposing your sermon content for social media to give a preview of your ministry to people looking for a home church.
These posts can also help people hear the gospel, learn more about your church, and spark curiosity in people who might not be ready to walk into your church doors.
Shift 2: Fostering Two-Way Communication
Strong church communities are built around meaningful conversations. And, the best conversations require two-way communication.
So, try using these 3 strategies to foster two-way communication online:
1. Ask questions on your posts and videos
Comments or responses to your questions can provide valuable insights into what resonates with people and what doesn’t, guiding your future content strategy.
2. Post a monthly online prayer request post
Ask social media members to share their struggles or worries and receive encouragement and prayers from the church community.
3. Host a live video session to answer common theological questions
Your community likely has deep questions about pain, suffering, hard life circumstances, and what the Bible has to say about their situations. Use live video to invite questions and provide solid biblical answers to your community's questions. Use these 3 strategies to invite two-way communication and create a deep sense of community online.
➡️ Download the Healthy Church Operations Ebook
Does your church have a solid plan for healthy church operations?
Maybe it’s time to get a blueprint to help you streamline your processes.
Grab your “Guide to Healthy Church Operations” now and get a plan for efficient church operations.
It's yours for FREE.
👉 DOWNLOAD “THE GUIDE TO HEALTHY CHURCH OPERATIONS” HERE
Shift 3: Humanizing Your Church
In a world of disconnection, people are desperate to connect.
But, sometimes people need to feel invited in and receive that human touch to engage. That’s why your virtual community should mirror the same belonging and fellowship your church provides in person.
Regular personal interactions on social media can humanize the church, and make your church a more relatable and approachable space.
Here are a few ideas for humanizing your church online:
- Provide behind-the-scenes videos and "peak behind the curtain" photos to help people better connect with your church.
- Post a casual photo of a staff member working on something church-related or post a video of a church leader sharing a personal reflection.
- Use social posts, stories, and reels to share different faces and help people get to know leaders.
Every step you take to share different faces, stories, and emotions results in increased authenticity and transparency.
Next Steps
Want to hear more about creating a thriving social media presence for your church?
Want practical tips for increasing engagement, encouraging spiritual growth, and tips for overall social media use?
Grab our FREE “Social Media Presence” chapter from our Guide to Healthy Church Operations.
